In today’s fast-paced world of hairstyling products, it’s easy to overlook classics like Brylcreem. This iconic grooming brand has been around since the 1920s, helping countless individuals maintain a suave appearance with its signature slicked-back look. It’s crucial for students learning about haircare and grooming history to understand the role Brylcreem played and continues to play in hairstyling trends. Here is a step-by-step guide for teaching students about Brylcreem.
1. Introduction to Brylcreem’s Origins: Begin the lesson by introducing students to Brylcreem’s origins. Founded in 1928 by County Chemicals in Birmingham, England, the brand quickly gained popularity with its slogan “A little dab’ll do ya.” Discuss how society’s preference for neat, well-groomed hairstyles at the time contributed to the popularity of this timeless product.
2. Understanding the Composition: Explain the basic ingredients of Brylcreem, including mineral oil, beeswax, and water. Emphasize that despite simple components, it was revolutionary in its time for offering an easy-to-use grooming solution. Encourage students to compare and contrast ancient haircare remedies with modern-day products and assess the significance of Brylcreem pioneering hair cosmetics.
3. Techniques for Application: Offer a practical demonstration of how to use Brylcreem effectively. Show the ideal amount needed (a pea-sized amount) and demonstrate applying it on damp or dry hair while combing or brushing to create a desired style smoothly. This hands-on approach will help learners appreciate both the product and the styling methods of bygone eras.
4. Discussing Influential Figures: Provide historical context regarding famous people who used Brylcreem, such as Elvis Presley and James Dean. These celebrities helped popularize the product among the masses by showcasing the smooth, sleek hair associated with Brylcreem. Analyze how public figures can influence buying trends and brand visibility.
5. Exploring the Social Impact: Delve into how Brylcreem played a significant role in shaping gender roles and expectations during the 20th century. Discuss advertising campaigns that targeted men, reinforcing social expectations of masculinity and the importance of physical appearance.
6. Current Brylcreem Products: Introduce students to contemporary adaptations of Brylcreem, such as styling creams and gels catering to current hairstyles and grooming preferences. By comparing older variations with modern formulations, students will gain insight into how brands evolve over time to meet changing customers’ needs.
7. Conclusion: Summarize the various aspects of Brylcreem you have explored with your students, emphasizing its lasting impact on the world of hairstyling and grooming throughout the decades. Encourage them to appreciate the historical context and diverse applications, from taming unruly locks to sculpting fashionable looks.
By following this step-by-step guide for teaching students about Brylcreem, you will instill a deeper understanding of hairstyling history and its societal impacts. Engaging learners with hands-on demonstrations and stimulating discussions will not only provide valuable knowledge but spark an appreciation for classic products still relevant today.
